Navigation In Darkness
Navigation in darkness and reduced visibility is a serious issue for the hiker. Important geographical and trail features (e.g., mountains, roads, forest, etc.) can be[Read More…]
Post Tagged with: "Navigation"
Magellan Echo GPS Watch Review
The Magellan Echo GPS watch is a light weight “smart sports running watch.” The Echo sports watch is linked to the user’s smart phone through[Read More…]
DeLorme inReach Product Review
The DeLorme inReach is a two-way satellite communication transceiver with GPS capability. DeLorme has steadily updated the inReach product line over the last several years.[Read More…]
Making Sense of Declination
Degrees true refer to an angular measurement from true north; the North Pole. Degrees magnetic refers to the angular measurement from magnetic north. Magnetic north and true north in most cases are not the same. So, if a hiker travels to the east or 090° magnetic that direction is equivalent to 106° degrees true. The difference is the declination of an area.
Evaluating Back-Up Magnetic Compass Models
Frequently in my backcountry land navigation class, I am asked about the need to carry a back-up compass. Generally students are interested in a light weight model that is low in cost, small in size, and would “fill in” as needed.
GPS Waypoint Management
Land navigation should be kept simple. The GPS equipped backcountry traveler might very well be making it harder – unintentionally. Here are 4 suggestions to keep navigation simple and efficient.
Sighting With A Magnetic Compass
A compass is an important part of the backcountry navigator’s kit. The use of Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers has simplified navigation to an extent but the knowledge of how to use a compass is still important; do not underestimate this skill.
Map Colors and Symbols – The Details of a Map
Bench Marks are survey monuments. Location and elevation data is accurate. Bench Mark will be represented by the letters BM and next to it will be printed the elevation data; see map above. In the backcountry, Bench Marks will have a brass/bronze plate at the location to indentify the mark and its position data. Please do not tamper with a Bench Mark.
Dead Reckoning – An Important Navigational Tool
A process called Dead Reckoning (DR) can be used to navigate and partially compensate for the loss of terrain features and important visual cues. DR is a method to determine one’s estimated present and future position. Dead Reckoning can be done during periods of darkness, bad weather, in featureless terrain (e.g., the desert, whiteout conditions) or equipment failure (e.g., dead GPS batteries.)
Topographic Map Essentials
Many publications, videos and web sites will give you a complete rundown on the features, symbols and components to a map. This article will discuss a few of the key features that you should be aware on a 7.5 minute map; the quadrangle.
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